How did you become a mortician, and how has the journey been?
I became interested in mortuary science because I wanted a career that would allow me to serve humanity in a unique and meaningful way. I was drawn to the important role morticians play in ensuring the deceased are treated with dignity and respect, while also helping families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Choosing this path has been a journey of learning, growth and self-discovery. It has taught me that the profession is not only about working with the deceased, but also about compassion, responsibility and understanding the emotions of grieving families. Although the field can be challenging and is sometimes misunderstood, it has strengthened my appreciation for life and confirmed my desire to make a meaningful contribution through my work.
Where and what did you study?
I studied Mortuary Science at Medprime Training College.
What were your favourite and least favourite units while on campus?
My favourite units were the practical Mortuary Science classes because they connected classroom learning with the realities of the profession. They helped me appreciate the care, precision and respect mortuary work requires.
The theory-intensive scientific units could be challenging, but they taught me discipline, patience and perseverance, helping me grow as a student.
Who was your best and least favourite lecturer?
My favourite lecturer made lessons engaging, interactive and easy to understand, while encouraging questions and connecting concepts to real-life situations.
My least favourite lecturer used a faster, theory-heavy approach that could be difficult to follow. However, that experience encouraged me to study independently and revise consistently.
How was campus life generally?
Campus life was a journey of learning, growth and self-discovery. Beyond classes and assignments, it involved building friendships, taking responsibility and becoming more independent. There were enjoyable moments and challenges, but each experience taught me something.
How did you make money while on campus?
I looked for opportunities to earn money through part-time work and small side hustles while balancing my studies. Managing both taught me budgeting, time management and responsibility.
It was not always easy, especially when academic work demanded more time, but the experience helped me appreciate hard work and financial independence.
How was dating on campus?
Dating was a learning experience that showed me the importance of communication, respect and emotional maturity. Students have academic responsibilities and personal goals, so finding a healthy balance is important.
I learnt that a relationship should not take away from your ambitions or sense of self, but should offer understanding and support.
What do you think of campus relationships?
They can be meaningful when built on honesty, trust, communication and mutual support. A healthy relationship should encourage both people to grow and work towards their goals rather than distract them from their education or personal development.
At the same time, young people should understand themselves and maintain their individuality.
Where did you hang out on weekends?
Weekends were a chance to relax, socialise and recharge after a busy week. I spent time with friends, visited social spots around campus and enjoyed moments that helped me take a break from classes and assignments.
I also used some of that time to prepare for the coming week. Those moments with friends helped create memories that made campus life more enjoyable.
What did you do with your free time?
When I had free time, I used it to revise my coursework, study, spend time with friends and relax. I also enjoyed learning new things and doing activities that helped me maintain a balance between school responsibilities and my personal life.
Which classmates will you never forget?
Dee, Grace and Shakila are classmates I will never forget. They brought something special to my campus experience, and the friendship, support, laughter and memories we shared made the journey more enjoyable.
Having people around who understand the challenges and excitement of student life makes a difference.
As a young woman, what inspired you to choose mortuary work, and what was the reaction from your family and friends?
I was inspired by the idea of serving humanity in a way that is important but often misunderstood. Mortuary work plays a meaningful role in ensuring that people who have passed away are treated with dignity and that their families are supported during difficult moments.
Some family members and friends were initially surprised by my choice because it is not a career many young women openly talk about pursuing. As they came to understand the purpose and importance of the profession, many became more supportive.
Their reactions also taught me to believe in my choices and not allow other people's first impressions to define my future.
Talk to us about the emotional demands of working in such an environment. How do you take care of yourself mentally and emotionally?
It calls for emotional resilience, compassion and professionalism. It is important to respect the seriousness of the work while remembering that you are also human and need to look after your own well-being.
I believe in maintaining a balance between empathy and professional responsibility, making time to rest, thinking positively and spending time with people who support me. I also remind myself of the purpose of the work: treating the deceased with dignity and showing respect to families during painful moments.
Taking care of my mental and emotional health is important so that I can continue approaching the profession with care and respect.
What has working with the deceased taught you about life?
It has reminded me that life is precious and should never be taken for granted. Seeing how deeply loss affects families makes me appreciate the importance of showing love, expressing gratitude and making time for the people who matter to us.
We can sometimes postpone saying what we feel or assume that we will always have more time, but life is unpredictable.
What is the one thing you would tell your campus self?
I would tell her to believe in herself, trust the process and remain open to learning. I would remind her that growth takes time and that not every challenge means she is failing.
Every lesson, friendship, success and setback can contribute to becoming wiser and stronger.